The body of Elisabeth Jane Ross, 38, was discovered by a homeless man on Evelpidon Street in the Kypseli district of Athens at around 1pm on July 18.
She had been dead for approximately eight days and showed no visible injuries or obvious signs of a struggle, according to police. Initially unidentified, she was estimated to be around 30 years old, 5ft 4in tall, with reddish hair tied in a bun, wearing black shorts bearing a French university insignia and a T-shirt.
Texts Sent After Death
Text messages sent from Elisabeth's phone have since come to light after detectives alleged that messages were dispatched from her mobile in the days following her death, continuing until she was identified by the media. On July 15, texts were sent to Ross's family claiming that Elisabeth "needed some time to herself" and "wanted to be alone for a while".
A Greek officer stated: "The phone was being used. Text messages were even sent obviously with a view to making people believe she was still alive. We are treating the building as a crime scene."
Investigation
A post-mortem examination is expected within the next few days. Greek authorities have called upon Interpol and American investigators to assist. Interpol informed the Hellenic Police that DNA analysis confirmed the body was that of a British woman.
Elisabeth is believed to have arrived in Greece on June 29 via Cyprus, having travelled from the US. A local resident living near the scene said the building where her body was discovered was frequented by rough sleepers, noting that one man who had been a regular presence there had not been seen for several days.
Police and Diplomatic Response
Police Scotland are in contact with Greek authorities and are offering support to her family in Scotland. A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "We are aware of the death of Scottish woman in Athens and are liaising with authorities in Greece. Officers are providing support to her family in Scotland."
A spokesperson for the UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office stated: "Our thoughts are with Elisabeth's family during this difficult time. We are providing consular support and are in contact with the local authorities."
No suspect has been identified at this stage.
